By Ramesh Kandel – Mortgage Broker & Director, Rayz Financial Services
Buying your first home in Australia has become more achievable in 2026–27 thanks to a range of Federal and State Government initiatives. From low-deposit home loan schemes to stamp duty concessions and cash grants, eligible first-home buyers could save tens of thousands of dollars.
At Rayz Financial Services, we help first-home buyers understand every available option, maximise government support, and secure the right home loan with confidence.
Australia-Wide Government Support
Several Federal Government initiatives are available to eligible first-home buyers regardless of where they live.
- First Home Guarantee (FHG): Purchase a home with as little as a 5% deposit without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), subject to eligibility and property price caps.
- Help to Buy Scheme: Open for applications since 5 December 2025, allowing eligible buyers to purchase with a 2% deposit while the Australian Government contributes up to 40% equity for new homes or 30% for existing homes.
Rayz Tip: We assess your eligibility and recommend the most suitable government assistance based on your circumstances.
ACT – No Stamp Duty for Eligible First Home Buyers
- No stamp duty from 1 July 2026 for eligible first-home buyers.
- No income cap.
- No property value cap.
- No First Home Owner Grant currently available.
Rayz Tip: ACT buyers may save thousands through stamp duty exemptions alone.
New South Wales (NSW)
- Stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000.
- Stamp duty concession for homes up to $1,000,000.
- Vacant land exemption up to $350,000.
- Vacant land concession up to $450,000.
- $10,000 First Home Owner Grant for eligible new homes.
Rayz Tip: Combining grants and stamp duty savings can significantly reduce your upfront costs.
Victoria
- Stamp duty exemption for homes up to $600,000.
- Stamp duty concession for homes up to $750,000.
- $10,000 First Home Owner Grant for eligible new homes.
Rayz Tip: We compare lenders and Government support options to maximise your savings.
Queensland
- No transfer duty for eligible new homes.
- No transfer duty for eligible vacant land.
- Established home concessions available under current thresholds.
- Up to $30,000 First Home Owner Grant for eligible new homes.
Rayz Tip: Queensland currently offers some of Australia's most generous support for eligible new-home buyers.
Western Australia
- Stamp duty exemption up to $600,000.
- Stamp duty concession up to $800,000.
- Vacant land exemption up to $450,000.
- $10,000 First Home Owner Grant for eligible new homes.
Rayz Tip: Purchasing within the eligible thresholds can substantially reduce your upfront expenses.
South Australia
- 100% stamp duty relief for eligible first-home buyers purchasing eligible new homes, off-the-plan apartments, house and land packages, and vacant land.
- No property value cap for eligible contracts entered on or after 6 June 2024.
- No concession available for established homes.
- $15,000 First Home Owner Grant for eligible new homes.
Rayz Tip: Buying a new home in South Australia can unlock substantial Government assistance.
Tasmania
- Eligible stamp duty relief under current Government settings.
- $20,000 First Home Owner Grant for eligible new homes.
Rayz Tip: We'll help determine which concessions apply to your purchase.
Northern Territory
- HomeGrown Territory Grant of up to $50,000.
- FreshStart New Home Grant of up to $30,000.
Rayz Tip: The Northern Territory currently offers some of Australia's highest first-home buyer incentives.
How Rayz Financial Services Can Help
Purchasing your first home involves much more than finding the right property. Our experienced mortgage brokers will guide you through every stage of the process.
- Assess your borrowing capacity.
- Compare home loans from over 30 lenders.
- Identify grants, concessions and Government schemes you may qualify for.
- Manage your applications and supporting documentation.
- Support you from pre-approval through to settlement.
Final Thoughts
Government incentives can make a significant difference to the cost of buying your first home, but eligibility rules vary between states and individual circumstances. Getting the right advice early can help you maximise your benefits and avoid costly mistakes.
Get in Touch
Ramesh Kandel
Mortgage Broker & Director – Rayz Financial Services
🌐 www.rayz.com.au
📧 ramesh@rayz.com.au
📞 0451 065 166 | 02 6106 9988
📍 Based in Canberra | Serving clients Australia-wide
Disclaimer: This newsletter contains general information only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Government grants, concessions, eligibility requirements and scheme rules may change. Please seek personalised advice before making any financial decisions.
